Two FCPS employees arrested in assault of child with autism

Two FCPS employees arrested in assault of child with autism

James Duffy III and Edmund Bailey

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. — A school bus driver and aide who work for Fairfax County public schools have both been charged with assault and battery in two October incidents involving an 11-year-old boy with autism.

The incidents took place on a school bus on October 11 and October 13. The second incident was stopped by a staff member who witnessed it, police say, and a supervisor got involved. The surveillance tape from the bus was retrieved and reviewed, and FCPD detectives began looking into the incidents.

Edmund Bailey, 35, and James Duffy III, 62, both of Lorton, turned themselves in after warrants were issued for their arrest last Friday. Duffy III is on administrative leave, and Bailey has resigned from his position as an aide.

“We ask anyone who witnesses this kind of behavior towards someone, but especially toward members of our community with autism or who are non-verbal, to call 9-1-1 immediately,” Fairfax County Police said in a press release. “If you suspect someone you know has been the victim of a crime or has committed such a crime, please contact us. You can also submit a tip anonymously through Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS.”